The greater Austin Asian community is fast growing, prosperous, vibrant and diverse. In 1990, only 3.3% of the Austin population was considered Asian American. The 2010 censes is expected to show that it has increased to over 6.5%. While the general population of Austin doubles about every 20 years, the Asian population is doubling about every 10 years. Not only is the Asian population growing at a fast rate, it is also diversifying. Thirty years ago the majority of the Asian population in Austin consisted of Chinese people with a relationship to UT. Today, the Asian population consists of people from many countries of origin, including India, Vietnam, and China.

Asians make up the most prosperous minority owned businesses. In 2008, annual buying power in Texas for Asians was nearly $33 billion according to a study by the Selig Center for Economic Growth at the University of Georgia’s Terry College of Business. By 2013, buying power in the state is projected to grow to $52 billion for Asians.

Areas like Chinatown Center, which opened in 2007 at 10901 N. Lamar Blvd., are successful hubs of Asian restaurants and businesses. Many other restaurants, stores and businesses are located throughout the Greater Austin area. These locations also bring Asian culture to Austin by hosting annual celebrations and festivities.